The Dutch Builder

The Dutch Builder Carpentry and home construction with a focus on efficiency and problem solving. 30 years experience as an independent contractor in southern Vermont

This wrap around deck was in desperate need of replacement. Not only had the majority of the decking rotted, the framing...
05/30/2025

This wrap around deck was in desperate need of replacement. Not only had the majority of the decking rotted, the framing to support the hot tub was lacking for the weight. Client asked to make the deck slightly larger and add a set of stairs off of the back. Challenges on this project were to use the existing concrete piers while trying to expand the structure. On top of that, the enormous hot tub had to be figured out. Solution there was to temporarily suspend the tub and build around it instead of trying to move it to the ground.
Everything went as planned!

Looking back at the first real investment property renovation about a decade ago. Bought as a foreclosure in ‘as is’ con...
03/31/2025

Looking back at the first real investment property renovation about a decade ago. Bought as a foreclosure in ‘as is’ condition this property needed a lot of work. I recall being both excited and stressed about not only meeting the goal of having this building ready to rent in a 6 month time period on top of my paying work. Borrowing a bunch of equity from another property and then waiting for the passive return on my sweat equity.
The property is a perfect location near beautiful Lowell Lake and close to amenities while also being incredibly quiet and private.
The renovation included, but not limited to-
New kitchen and baths
Completely new first floor layout and entry.
New roof, siding, windows, soffits and trim
New wide pine floors from trees I cut down and had milled
New wrap around deck with covered porch.
New insulation and Sheetrock
New carpet
New closets
New paint and flooring
New heating system
New recessed lighting
Relocation of washer and dryer
And the list goes on.
A major undertaking to take on completely alone but so worth it.
I just adore this home and am very proud of the work I put into it.
Please excuse the mix of before and after photos but I’m sure you’ll get the idea.

Revisit to a custom cash counter for a friend’s clothing store. Delivered and installed in 2009 this 38”x14’ 6” solid p...
03/21/2025

Revisit to a custom cash counter for a friend’s clothing store. Delivered and installed in 2009 this 38”x14’ 6” solid pine slab is holding up wonderfully after 16 years of service
Thick poly gloss finish to keep it bright. The edge is wrapped in rope to take up any imperfections along the edges. Ipe Brazilian mahogany was then added and accented with stainless steel lag bolts to give a more nautical or industrial look.
Go visit Spring & Harbor on Main Street Manchester Center Vt to see this monster in person. Pick up something nice for your love while you’re in there.
Definitely a fun, one of a kind and timeless piece.

Nice rainy day to assemble some cabinets. Love the color choice.
03/05/2025

Nice rainy day to assemble some cabinets.
Love the color choice.

Ice Ice Baby. The ice house project is like nothing I’ve ever seen. A burst water line flooding the basement created so ...
02/24/2025

Ice Ice Baby.
The ice house project is like nothing I’ve ever seen. A burst water line flooding the basement created so much condensation inside this building where rime ice had built up on all the walls. One suggestion mentioned was possibly a hot water line burst creating lots of steam in the cold house in turn creating ice build up on the walls. Check comments to see videos of the ice midagation.

Really…..Who doesn’t need one of these in their life?
02/22/2025

Really…..Who doesn’t need one of these in their life?

Harvest tables are the best! If you have the space to accommodate one I highly recommend them. They can motivate you to ...
02/22/2025

Harvest tables are the best!
If you have the space to accommodate one I highly recommend them. They can motivate you to invite people to sit around them.
Nice welcoming country vibe.

02/22/2025

Excited to start a new project nearby to me for an old acquaintance turned client. This already cute cottage will be a cute, cozy and fresh warm cottage once completed. I’m calling this one the Ice House for reasons I will update on.
First step is to call in the A team to clear the way and get rolling!!!
Stay tuned!

02/22/2025

Where did all of my equipment go?

For many years I have done custom lumber making. Mostly large butt end logs milled into table top slabs retaining the li...
02/20/2025

For many years I have done custom lumber making. Mostly large butt end logs milled into table top slabs retaining the live bark edge of the tree. Unfortunately the old mill had worn out and had to be put out to pasture. The smaller mill is still kicking and perfect for 2ft diameter logs or smaller. Be sure to reach out if you have a log that you would like sawn for a mantel, chipping block or any other ideas. Or for instance a leaning hemlock tree jeopardizing the new to be home milled into the carrying beam for the second story loft space. The clients loved it.

Address

3863 Route 30
Jamaica, VT
05343

Telephone

+18023660494

Website

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